Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma criticised the Indian National Congress for including the death of popular Assamese singer Zubeen Garg in its election manifesto, calling the move a serious misuse of a sensitive issue.
Speaking during the ongoing election campaign, Sarma said that Zubeen Garg holds a very special place in the hearts of the people of Assam. He said it was unfortunate that such a respected figure’s death was being brought into political discussions for what he described as “collecting votes.”
The Chief Minister said the matter is currently under court consideration and should not be used for political purposes. He pointed out that a fast-track court has already been set up and hearings are in progress. According to him, the legal process is moving ahead, and there is no need to turn it into an election issue.
Sarma said, “The Congress has committed an unpardonable crime by including Zubeen’s name and his death in its election manifesto. If they really want justice, they should go to court and fight the case properly.” He added that the people of Assam understand such matters and will respond strongly to what he called “politics of sentiment.”
He also questioned the Congress party’s promise of delivering justice within 100 days if voted to power. Sarma said such claims lack credibility and alleged that some of the accused in the case had links with Congress leaders. He further said that the present government is committed to ensuring that all those involved face strict legal action.
The Chief Minister claimed that under previous governments, cases like this were delayed due to corruption and inefficiency. In contrast, he said, the current government has taken steps to ensure faster investigation and legal proceedings. He expressed confidence that the case related to Zubeen Garg’s death could be resolved within a few months, possibly within 100 days.
Sarma also referred to a video circulating on social media, which he said suggests that efforts are being made to raise the issue at the national level, including within the Congress Working Committee. He alleged that this could be part of a larger plan to politicise the matter and warned that those involved in such actions would not be spared.
At the same time, the Chief Minister clarified that he does not want to politicise the singer’s death. He said he prefers to pay his respects in a personal and quiet manner, including visiting memorial sites. He criticised some Congress leaders for making public visits with media presence, suggesting that such actions were aimed at gaining political attention.